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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Up to 18 m tall
Size:
Up to 18 m tall
Distribution:
The species is native to large parts of sub-Saharan Africa (including, but not limited to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe). In South Africa, it is found in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, North West and some parts of Northern and Eastern Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
86.86 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
17.18 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.39 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 97.4%, D: 1.4%]
Importance:
Sclerocarya birrea is an economically and culturally important African tree, valued for products such as Amarula Cream Liqueur, cosmetic oil, and its traditional medicinal uses, while also supporting rural livelihoods. Its drought tolerant and deep rooting system make it important in agroforestry and ecosystem resilience. Sequencing its genome will improve understanding of its biology, support conservation and breeding efforts, and enhance sustainable commercial development.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Prof. Eshchar Mizrachi
University of Pretoria
Group:
Mammal
Genome size:
2.64 million DNA base pairs (2.64 Gigabases)
Size:
80-120 cm
Distribution:
Majority of Zulu sheep are kept kept by rural farmers in the Kwa-Zulu
Natal province of South Africa as a source for income and affordable
protein.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
60.89 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.1 kilobases
Assembly N50:
TBA
Contig number:
TBA
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
TBA
Genome Length:
2.64 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8%
BUSCO database:
TBA
Ovis aries
Zulu Sheep

Importance:
Zulu Sheep developed unique and specific adaptative traits to local Southern African environments including tolerance to hot and humid conditions, tolerance to local internal and external parasites, endurance, and is immune to most local disease.
Date Published:
2024-05-07
Photo credit:
© S. Ngcobo
Fauna
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